Read More

Mr Anderson said: “I’m delighted that Liz Twist, with whom I’ve worked closely for 20 years, has been chosen as our Labour candidate in Blaydon.

“She is well known and widely respected across our constituency as a genuine hard working councillor and trade union representative.

“She was a key member of my constituency office staff team for many years and she brings that vital experience to the role of MP for Blaydon. “I’m sure she will serve our people with commitment and dedication for years to come.”

Another councillor, Laura Pidcock, has been picked to be Labour’s candidate for North West Durham .

Councillor Laura Pidcock

She represents Cramlington Eastfield on Northumberland County Council and was a mental health support worker before moving to the charity sector, first as an education worker and then as manager of the education team at anti-racism charity Show Racism the Red Card.

The constituency’s current Labour MP, Pat Glass, is standing down. Labour held North West Durham with a majority of 10,056 in 2015.

Read More

Ms Pidcock said: “I am proud to be selected as the Labour candidate for North West Durham in the General Election and am determined to be on the doorstep and making the case for Labour to local people.

“Pat Glass has been a fantastic MP who has undoubtedly made a positive difference to local communities.

“Local people need a Labour MP and a Labour Government.”

Ms Glass said: “I’m delighted that Laura has been selected as the Labour candidate for North West Durham. It has been an honour to represent the area and I know Laura and know that she is a great campaigner who will be a strong voice for local people.”